Abu Dhabi Judiciary Replaces Digital Signatures with Facial Recognition

The first stage of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department’s (ADJD) adoption of facial recognition technology for notarial work has begun. The judicial authority has become the first regional organization to use biometrics as a substitute for an electronic signature. 

The first system implementation enables lawyers to use their mobile devices for power of attorney approvals because it provides an alternative method of signing that replaces standard electronic signature requirements. High security protection is achieved by the system’s use of encrypted biometric data in conjunction with real-time official record checking, which prevents unauthorised access attempts and guarantees accurate identification.

Yousef Saeed Al Abri, the ADJD’s undersecretary, claims that the project supports Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s goal of modernising the legal system and incorporating cutting-edge technology into all facets of government services. The initiative supports digital transformation goals, which aim to streamline processes while increasing the speed of operations and improving judicial performance.

In order to improve secure remote access to judicial services, officials confirmed that the next phase of the project will integrate facial recognition technology into all notary and authentication services across Abu Dhabi Courts. The adoption of this technology establishes Abu Dhabi as a regional leader in both legal innovation and digital governance.

The department establishes a new standard for intelligent judicial services throughout the Middle East by using secure biometric identification instead of digital signatures. The department’s new system improves customer service by eliminating documentation requirements and requiring no in-person contact.

Global Adoption of Facial Recognition in Courts and Government Services

Facial recognition technology with digital identification systems has become a global standard. The e-Government platform of Estonia enables users to access secure online services and sign documents through their national digital identification system. Singapore’s SingPass system provides users with remote verification capabilities, which they can use to sign government documents, although its use in court proceedings remains unverified. China implements facial recognition technology throughout its public services, thereby demonstrating the worldwide trend toward artificial intelligence-based digital justice systems.